Talk by Peking University professor

Prof Wang speaking on Chinese traditions in the modern world

The UTAR Centre for Chinese Studies (CCS) and Tun Tan Cheng Lock Centre for Social and Policy Studies (TCLC) jointly organised a talk titled “The Significance of Chinese Tradition in the Modern World (中国文化传统的现代意义)” by Prof Wang Shou Chang (王守常教授) from Peking University (PKU), China on 19 January 2017.

Present at the talk were UTAR Vice Presidents Prof Ir Dr Ewe Hong Tat and Prof Ir Dr Lee Sze Wei, Institute of Chinese Studies Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, CCS Chairperson Assoc Prof Dr Wong Wun Bin and TCLC Chairperson Assoc Prof Dr Chin Yee Mun.

There were some 200 attendees in the audience including Silverlake International Ltd Chief Executive Officer Li Lin, Silverlake Advisor to Executive Chairman-cum-Sales and Marketing Director Kwang king Siong, UTAR academic staff, students and members of the public.

The talk focused on the importance of cultural traditions and their influence on the modern world. Prof Wang highlighted some important incidents from the ancient to recent past that have influenced the formation of the present Chinese society. He emphasised, “Despite foreign influence, Chinese traditions and intellectual heritage continue to be tremendously significant because they are the fundamentals of the modern Chinese society.”

At the talk, Prof Wang cited some Chinese philosophies and sayings from the Analects of Confucius (论语) which are still commonly practised in the contemporary world. The speaker also encouraged the audience saying, “We should sustain and live out the traditions. We can make our ancestors’ wisdom more relevant and meaningful to our daily lives through consistent learning.”

Prof Wang is a renowned scholar and speaker from PKU. He has vast experience in the history of Chinese philosophy, Buddhism, the history of modern thought and other research areas.

The 200 participants listening to the talk

Prof Wang explaining some Chinese philosophies and famous quotes

First row, third from right: Prof Ewe, Prof Wang and Prof Lee

Prof Ewe (left) presenting a souvenir to Prof Wang